As the school summer holidays approach, families are eagerly anticipating their time away. However, burglars are also looking forward to the next couple of months for different reasons. According to a recent study conducted by 247 Blinds on home security measures and burglaries, the month of August has been recorded as one of the highest for spikes in break-in incidents. With many homeowners away on vacation, this time of year can be a cause for concern.
The research reveals that 42% of UK residents are more worried about being burgled in 2023 than in previous years. Of course, home security is the last thing you want to think about while you’re relaxing on the beach.
To help alleviate some of these worries, 247 Blinds has partnered with home security specialists Simplisafe to share some tips on how to avoid break-ins and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.
Firstly, it’s important not to broadcast your holiday plans on social media. Jonathan Wall, UK general manager at Simplisafe, advises against sharing details of your absence from home on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Additionally, he suggests keeping valuables out of view from windows to avoid tempting potential burglars.
Another tip is to set up a Keepsafe at the post office. Jonathan recommends asking the Post Office to hold any mail you may receive during your time away. This prevents a buildup of letters that could indicate your absence to burglars. It also provides an added layer of security by keeping your post in a safe space.
Locking all windows and doors properly is another crucial step. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of ensuring all entrances to your home are securely locked before going to bed or leaving the house. This is especially vital in areas with higher levels of break-ins, such as student-heavy neighborhoods where valuable items like laptops may be targeted.
Investing in home security gadgets can also be a great deterrent. Jonathan suggests installing a bell box, an outdoor siren, which signals the presence of a burglar alarm inside the home. Some alarms are connected to professional monitoring centers, enabling a prompt police response. Video doorbells are another effective option, acting as visible deterrents and capturing crucial evidence for the police. Combining outdoor security cameras with covert ones can further enhance the security of your property.
Lastly, Helen O’Connor, product manager at 247 Blinds, recommends installing motorized blinds as a smart and cost-effective alternative to other security measures. These blinds create the illusion that someone is home even when you’re away, making your property less attractive to potential burglars. Motorized blinds are operated by a small, efficient motor that can be set on a timer and look just like regular roller blinds.
By following these tips, you can better protect your home and enjoy a worry-free vacation. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to home security.